Astros’ search for a GM could be nearing an end

The Houston Astros are nearing the end of their general manager search, with Brewers assistant GM Matt Kleine emerging as the top candidate. Houston has been seeking a replacement since parting ways with Dana Brown on August 24. To hire Kleine, who recently won the World Series with Milwaukee, the Astros would reportedly need to buy him out of a recently signed contract extension.

Astros owner Jim Crane has expressed strong interest in smaller-market roster construction methods after Milwaukee won the title with the 19th-largest payroll. Internal candidates Charles Cook and Gavin Dickey have interviewed for the role, alongside former Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo, as Houston seeks to finalize baseball operations before upcoming free-agency meetings.